Clodagh Ryan, MD, FRCPC
University of Toronto/University Health Network; Toronto, ON

Session Description

Over the last two decades there has been a dramatic rise in opioid use, misuse, morbidity and mortality in North America and the Western World. This is due to a combination of factors, of which the recognition of chronic (non-cancer) pain by the medical community, the encouragement of patients to seek treatment and more importantly, the promotion of opioids as a key treatment modality are prime considerations.  Opioid use is associated with alterations in sleep architecture, respiratory depression and sleep-disordered breathing.  This presentation will review the current literature and evidence relating to the impact of and relationship between opioid use and sleep breathing disorders and explore treatment modalities.

Learning Objectives

At the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to:

  • Describe the mechanisms of action of opioids on the respiratory system
  • Summarize the relationship between opioids and sleep breathing disorders
  • Develop and apply treatment recommendations for those with opioid induced sleep disordered breathing

CanMEDS Roles: Communicator, Health Advocate, Medical Expert, Scholar